Concrete Cutting with Handheld Saw
Cutting concrete slabs, walls, or footings using petrol or electric handheld concrete saws. Pre-filled hazards, controls, and risk ratings.
What's In Your SWMS
11 Hazards & Controls
Silicosis, lung cancer, chronic respiratory disease
Erect plastic sheeting to isolate work area from occupied spaces
- Use wet cutting method with continuous water suppression
- Ensure adequate ventilation (open windows/doors)
- Use vacuum extraction where wet cutting not practical
- Limit cutting duration (max 30 min continuous, 10 min breaks)
- No dry sweeping - use wet methods or HEPA vacuum for cleanup
- Employees trained in silica hazards
P2/N95 respirator (AS/NZS 1716) worn at all times during cutting and cleanup
16-Step Work Procedure
Equipment & PPE
Equipment (6)
- Handheld concrete saw (petrol/electric)
14-16 inch diamond blade recommended
- Diamond cutting blade
Rated for concrete/reinforced concrete
- Water suppression system
For wet cutting to control silica dust
- First aid kit
PPE (6)
- P2/N95 respiratorAS/NZS 1716
Silica-rated for concrete dust
- Safety glassesAS/NZS 1337
- Hearing protection (Class 5 earmuffs)
For 105+ dB noise exposure
- Steel cap bootsAS/NZS 2210.3
Training & Emergency
Competency Requirements
- Construction Induction (White Card)training
Required for all workers on construction sites
- Silica Dust Awareness Trainingtraining
Understanding of RCS hazards and control measures
- Concrete Cutting Equipment Trainingtraining
Specific training on handheld saw operation and safety
- First Aid Certificate
At least one person on site should hold current certificate
- Current Driver's Licence
If operating company vehicle
Emergency Procedures
If silica dust exposure occurs (coughing, difficulty breathing): Move to fresh air immediately, remove contaminated clothing, seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
For eye contact with concrete dust or debris: Flush eyes with clean water for at least 15 minutes, hold eyelids open. Seek medical attention.
For cuts or lacerations from blade or debris: Apply firm pressure with clean cloth, elevate if possible, seek first aid. For severe bleeding, call 000.
- + 3 more included in your SWMS
Everything above, included in your SWMS document.
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High-Risk Construction Work Categories
Under Australian WHS Regulations (291 - High Risk Construction Work), this work is classified as high-risk due to:
- Involves use of powered mobile plant (Concrete saw)
- Involves structural alteration requiring temporary support
Australian Standards Referenced
National Guidance Documents
- SafeWork NSW - Crystalline silica guidance
- WorkSafe guidance note on concrete cutting
Who Needs This SWMS?
This template is designed for the following trades and roles performing concrete cutting with handheld saw work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hazards are covered in this Concrete Cutting SWMS?
This template covers 7 key hazards: Crystalline Silica Dust (the most significant hazard, linked to silicosis and lung cancer), Noise Exposure (105+ dB from saw operation), Flying Debris and Projectiles, Hand-Arm Vibration, Manual Handling, Fuel and Fire risks (for petrol saws), and Slips, Trips and Falls from water runoff and debris.
Do I need a new SWMS for every concrete cutting job?
Yes. Under WHS regulations, SWMS must be site-specific. You cannot reuse the same SWMS across different job sites. This template allows you to quickly generate a new SWMS for each site by adding the site address, principal contractor details, and any site-specific hazards while keeping all the pre-filled content.
What PPE is required for concrete cutting work?
This template includes 6 essential PPE items: P2/N95 respirator (AS/NZS 1716) for silica dust protection, Safety glasses (AS/NZS 1337), Class 5 hearing protection for 105+ dB noise exposure, Steel cap boots (AS/NZS 2210.3), Cut-resistant gloves, and Long pants and long sleeves. High-visibility vest may also be required depending on site requirements.
What training do workers need for concrete cutting?
Workers must hold a Construction Induction (White Card) and complete Silica Dust Awareness Training. Specific training on concrete cutting equipment operation and safety is also required. At least one person on site should hold a current First Aid Certificate.
Why is silica dust such a significant hazard?
Crystalline silica dust is generated when cutting concrete and is classified as a known human carcinogen. Inhaling respirable crystalline silica (RCS) can cause silicosis (an incurable lung disease), lung cancer, and chronic respiratory disease. This is why wet cutting methods, adequate ventilation, and P2 respirators are mandatory controls in this SWMS.
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